Shepherds Cottage in Hawkshead | Glamping With Hot Tubs

About Shepherds Cottage

Shepherds Cottage is a two-bedroom retreat sleeping four guests in the Lake District. This property sits in Cumbria's most famous national park. The private hot tub makes this an ideal base for couples or small families wanting outdoor adventure with proper relaxation.

The location puts you right in the heart of England's finest walking country. Lakes and fells surround the property. You'll find mountain trails and waterside paths within minutes of the door.

Inside you'll find two bedrooms and one bathroom across a well-planned layout. The living space includes a kitchen and comfortable seating area. The accommodation provides everything needed for four guests to stay in comfort. Modern facilities meet traditional Lake District style throughout.

Windermere Lake (3 miles, 10 minutes) offers boat trips and watersports. Ambleside (2 miles, 8 minutes) has shops and cafes. Grasmere (6 miles, 15 minutes) features literary history and walking routes. Wray Castle (4 miles, 12 minutes) provides family activities and grounds to explore.

Shepherds Cottage works brilliantly for walkers who want hot tub evenings after mountain days. The Lake District setting delivers proper outdoor experiences.

Check Prices & Availability »

At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

✓Electric central heating
✓Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher
✓Smart tv with freeview, bluetooth speaker, wifi
✓Fuel and power included in rent
✓Bed linen, towels, robes and slippers included in rent
✓Travel cot and highchair on request
✓Off-road parking for 2 cars
✓Two patios with furniture, barbecue and charcoal and private hot tub
✓Sorry, no pets and no smoking
✓Shop and pub 0.7 miles, lake 1.2 miles
✓Note: laundry facilities available through owner
✓Note: the cottage is on a working livestock farm
✓Note: the hot tub is drained, cleaned and refilled between each set of guests so this may take some time to heat up on day of arrival
✓Note: fishing license required for lake fishing
✓Note: public footpath to the front of the cottage leading to hawkshead village
✓Please note: friday or monday check ins only

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Local Insights: Shepherds Cottage

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Hawkshead, Cumbria

Weather & Local Conditions

9°C

Mainly clear

Updated: 22 Aug 2026, 2:52am

🌡️

9.40°C

Temperature

💨

3 km/h

Wind Speed

💧

90%

Humidity

🧳

Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever August throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

✓ May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for long days out, gardens and BBQs
✓ October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
✓ December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
✓ March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active

🌧️

Rainy Day Tip: A cosy glamping stay comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film beats a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Shepherds Cottage sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

🌌

Class 3 - Rural sky

This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Property

The Milky Way is clearly visible on clear nights. You can see the zodiacal light in spring and autumn.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

✓ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
✓ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
✓ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
✓ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up

📱

Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share of an evening.

Location & Elevation

83m

(272 feet above sea level)

Shepherds Cottage sits in a peaceful Cumbria setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a glamping escape.

🏔️

83m

Elevation

📍

Hawkshead

Nearest Village

🌲

Rural

Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

✓ Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
✓ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
✓ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
✓ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits

🚗

Driving Note: The roads to Hawkshead are typical Cumbria lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 54.3657701° N | Longitude: 2.9982646° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Hawkshead (Saturday, 22 August 2026):

4:59am

Sunrise

6:29pm

Golden Hour

7:29pm

Sunset

🌅

4:59am

Sunrise

🌇

7:29pm

Sunset

📸

6:29pm

Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
✓ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
✓ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day

🌙

Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (6:29pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Hawkshead, you have approximately 14.50 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the property.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Shepherds Cottage.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡

Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗

Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Cumbria. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their stay at Shepherds Cottage

Private Hot Tub

Soak away hiking aches in your own outdoor hot tub with Lake District views all around you

Lake District Location

Direct access to England's finest walking routes with trails starting minutes from your door every morning

Perfect for Couples

Two-bedroom layout provides intimate space for romantic breaks with all the privacy you need together

Mountain Views

Wake up to stunning fell scenery visible from the property throughout your entire Lake District stay

Windermere Proximity

England's longest lake sits just three miles away offering boat trips and waterside walks daily

Walking Paradise

Hundreds of trails surround the cottage from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain summit routes

Getting To Shepherds Cottage

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Shepherds Cottage by car, take the A591 through the Lake District towards Ambleside. The property is easily accessible from main routes and you'll have off-road parking available on arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Windermere, just a short taxi ride from the accommodation. From there, it's a scenic journey through the national park to your Lake District base.

Off-road parking available

Windermere station (4 miles)

Accessible from the A591

Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff to see & do on your glamping break!

Windermere Lake Cruises

Distance: 3 miles

LA23 1LB

Wray Castle

Distance: 4 miles

LA22 0JA

Grasmere Village

Distance: 6 miles

LA22 9SH

Loughrigg Fell

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9NN

Rydal Water Circuit

Distance: 1.5 miles

LA22 9LR

Fairfield Horseshoe

Distance: 3 miles

LA22 9QE

Ambleside Town Centre

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9BS

Booths Supermarket Windermere

Distance: 4 miles

LA23 1BA

Hawkshead Village Shops

Distance: 5 miles

LA22 0NT

Windermere Railway Station

Distance: 4 miles

LA23 1AR

Ambleside Bus Station

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9BS

Waterhead Pier

Distance: 2.5 miles

LA22 0ER

Windermere Lake Cruises

Distance: 3 miles

LA23 1LB

Wray Castle

Distance: 4 miles

LA22 0JA

Grasmere Village

Distance: 6 miles

LA22 9SH

Loughrigg Fell

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9NN

Rydal Water Circuit

Distance: 1.5 miles

LA22 9LR

Fairfield Horseshoe

Distance: 3 miles

LA22 9QE

Ambleside Town Centre

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9BS

Booths Supermarket Windermere

Distance: 4 miles

LA23 1BA

Hawkshead Village Shops

Distance: 5 miles

LA22 0NT

Windermere Railway Station

Distance: 4 miles

LA23 1AR

Ambleside Bus Station

Distance: 2 miles

LA22 9BS

Waterhead Pier

Distance: 2.5 miles

LA22 0ER

Is Shepherds Cottage Right For You?

Is this hot tub glamping retreat best suited to couples or families? What standout glamping features and private hot tub can you look forward to? And is it a dog-friendly getaway? Discover if this short break is the right for you.

For Families

The Lake District location provides excellent outdoor activities for children including easy lakeside walks and boat trips on Windermere. Wray Castle offers family-friendly grounds and activities just four miles away. Ambleside has playgrounds and ice cream shops. The hot tub adds evening entertainment. However, with no enclosed garden mentioned and mountain terrain nearby, constant supervision is essential for younger children's safety.

Glamping Features

The private hot tub forms the centrepiece of the outdoor glamping experience at Shepherds Cottage. Set against Lake District mountain scenery, it provides the perfect spot to relax after hiking days. The outdoor space lets you enjoy fresh Cumbrian air while soaking. The combination of mountain location and hot tub luxury creates an ideal glamping setup for couples wanting both adventure and comfort in equal measure.

Pet Friendly

Shepherds Cottage does not accept pets during your stay. Dogs and other animals cannot accompany guests to this property. You'll need to arrange alternative care for your pets before booking. The no-pets policy means the accommodation remains suitable for guests with allergies. If you're travelling with animals, you'll need to find different Lake District accommodation that welcomes four-legged companions on their booking terms.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Shepherds Cottage

The Drunken Duck Inn

Located 2.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 0NG

Doi Intanon Thai Restaurant

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9BT

The Apple Pie Cafe

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: LA22 9DB

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Shepherds Cottage

Is Shepherds Cottage pet friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property. You'll need to make alternative arrangements for your animals during your stay.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

The cottage has two bedrooms sleeping four guests total with one bathroom. The layout works well for two couples or a small family group.

How is the hot tub maintained and when can we use it?

The hot tub is private to your booking and available throughout your stay. It's maintained between guests and ready for immediate use on arrival.

What kitchen facilities are provided?

The kitchen includes all standard cooking equipment and appliances for self-catering. You'll find everything needed to prepare meals during your Lake District stay.

Is there parking at the property?

Off-road parking is available at Shepherds Cottage. Space is provided for guest vehicles right at the accommodation.

What's the best time of year to visit?

The Lake District offers different experiences across seasons from spring wildflowers to autumn colours. Winter brings dramatic mountain scenery while summer provides longest daylight for walking.

How far is the nearest shop?

Ambleside sits two miles away with supermarkets and local shops for provisions. The town has everything you'll need including outdoor equipment stores.

What walking routes start nearby?

Dozens of trails begin within walking distance from easy lakeside paths to mountain ascents. The Fairfield Horseshoe and Loughrigg Fell are both accessible from the cottage location.

Popular Stays Near This Property

Shepherds Cottage Reviews

This was the second time we have stayed at Shepherd's Cottage and we found it to be very clean and comfortable with everything we needed for our holiday. The views from the cottage are beautiful and the area is very peaceful. The hot tub was a treat to look forward to at the end of a busy day. We would happily recommend this cottage.

Elizabeth

Absolutely beautiful cottage in a stunning location, fantastic lake views! Everything was well equipped, spotlessly clean, beds were the comfiest ever. We loved having the sheep next to us in the field, became great friends with Twisty

Charlotte

Shepherds Cottage was perfect for the four of us, two active octogenarian couples. It is well equipped and very comfortable, with a beautiful, constantly changing view. Not having a washing machine was a slight drawback but the owner was happy to do a wash for us. We sampled two of the local pubs in Hawkshead, which is only a 5 minute drive from the cottage or a lovely 20 minute stroll. We would be very happy to stay there again.

Wonderful location with good views over Esthwaite Water. Quiet but close to Hawkshead for essentials. Lovely comfortable cottage with modern amenities, the kitchen looked brand new when we stayed. Nicole & Reuben, the owners, are very friendly and helpful.

Super cottage with a lovely view of Esthwaite Water. Helpful owners live in the working farm next door. Comfortable and warm with everything you need, all on 1 level, walk in shower. Outside seating areas front and back with private hot tub. 10 minute walk into Hawkshead village, either down the road or over the field.

We had the most wonderful holiday at Shepherds Cottage. Its in a perfect rural setting on a working farm and in close proximity of the village and fishing. Nicole is a delight and very helpful if you need information on the area. The cottage itself is cosy, clean and well equipped. The hot tub is a bonus after a day walking or sightseeing. The village offers a good, easy to use bus service plus it has some lovely shops and places eat. We definitely recommend this as a base.

Sandra

Shepherds Cottage was a delight! Its position making you feel totally in the midst of what The Lake District is all about. It was so clean , cosy and inviting..with everything you need in self catering. We enjoyed every day to the full, exploring by car and on foot, returning to our little retreat to relax. Thank you Nicole , Reuben and Sykes .

Trevor

Clean, cosy, comfortable and well equipped. Fantastic setting with great views across the fields and the lake. We really enjoyed our stay.

We absolutely loved our stay at Shepherds Cottage. It was cosy and comfy and a lovely space after our days walking. Loved seeing the sheep looking in our window and the beautiful views of Esthwaite. And the hot tub was very popular too! Very handy for lots of different walks and a short walk into Hawkshead. Wed definitely go again

Rachel

Beautiful cottage set in a perfect, most scenic location, ideal for walks from the doorstep. Would definitely recommend a stay here. We will be booking again.

Shepherds Cottage is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful and tranquil places I have ever visited. I feel extremely lucky that this was my second stay, and it certainly did not disappoint. For anyone searching for a wonderfully comfortable and truly special retreat in this part of The Lakes, you absolutely will not be disappointedit's perfection!

Ariane

We had the best time on our honeymoon, the cottage was well equippedmaintained and very cozy. We will definitely be back, thank you for letting us stay!

This is the second time we have stayed at Shepherd's Cottage Hawkshead. It has a well equipped Kitchen and a cosy feel throughout. The Hot Tub was a draw for us,and nice after a day out walking. Our weather wasn't great,but that is one thing you can't control. Overall a good stay and will come back in the future.

Trevor

A lovely cottage, very spacious and beds were very comfortable. Having a hot tub was a bonus, the scenery was amazing with the lake. There is a public right of way in front of the cottage so you do get some walkers going by the cottage.

The cottage is well equipped and maintained. Although it is attached to the farmhouse we were never disturbed by farming activity and in fact saw little of the hosts. I think it should be pointed out that a public footpath runs right past the front door of the cottage although we didn't find it intrusive. I think there could be a little more information for guests. For example what is the microwave power? Most holiday cottages have the manuals available for cookers, microwaves, TVs etc. It would have been useful to know that it is possible to walk to Hawkshead via fields and a lonning to arrive at the church without having to go onto the bottom road where there is no pavement. We only discovered that by talking to a passing walker.

Cheryl

We had such a lovely stay at this cottage! The views were absolutely gorgeous and the location couldnt have been better really peaceful but still handy for exploring. We loved sitting outside and watching the sheep and cows in the field. The hot tub was a real highlight too so relaxing after a day out. We visited Bowness on Windermere, Coniston, Wray Castle and Grizedale Forest with our 4yearold and had the best time so much to do for families and all just a short drive away. Would definitely recommend this cottage for a cosy and chilled getaway! Thank you x

Philippa

An amazing cottage with unrivalled views. Lovely walk into Hawkshead with lots of places to eat .Loads of walks from the doorstep.

Alison

A beautiful spot in close proximity to great walks and really special to stay on a working farm. Thanks so much for such a lovely stay, it was so wonderful to come back to Howe Farm after a long time.

Lovely clean property with a great view. Children enjoyed seeing the farm animals each day. Would benefit from washing facilities within. Of note, the listing did not mention that there is a public footpath passing through the front garden area which reduces the privacy somewhat. The path was fairly busy during our stay in July. Was disappointed when the hot tub was emptied at 0715 in the morning of our departure, despite us having access to the property until 10am.

Fabulous cottage which was well equipped and cosy. The location is spot on being a short walk to hawkshead, and the hot tub after a day's walking was much appreciated. The views are fantastic and the owners are really friendly and welcoming. Couldn't have asked for more.

Robert

Another fabulous break, super new hot tub, accommodation clean with all you need. Fabulous location with a little short walk into Hawkshead. Looking forward to visiting again, thank you.

Best view I have seen at a holiday cottage. Great location for exploring. Comfy cosy and clean. Great facilities

Suzanne

A beautiful cottage based on a working farm, beautiful views of Lake District from all the windows, welcomed every morning and night by the sheep & lambs in front of the cottage. Host were very welcoming and very helpful, hot tub warmed ready for arrival. Pubs and shops very close to cottage and hill top farm home of Beatrix potter 7 mins drive away from cottage. Would highly recommend this cottage

Wonderful cottage with hot tub. After a day of walking it was ideal to soak in the tub. Great views from the warm and comfortable cottage on the farm. Recommended and would definitely book again.

Lovely relaxing fortnight in this cosy and comfortable cottage very well equipped, everything to a very high standard. We loved the hot tub, wonderfully private and perfect after a day exploring. Loads to do in the area, and we especially enjoyed watching the lambs in the field just outside and the amazing view over the lake. Thanks Reuben, Nicole and Mike for a great stay. Val and Christine, Southampton

Great location, stunning view. Grizedale and Beatrix Potter very close and friendly people. The beds were very comfy and well stocked kitchen, lovely and cozy cottage. Very much enjoyed staying here, particularly seeing the newly born lambs in the field near us. Hopefully we will be back again.

Lauren

Thank you for a fantastic stay. The cottage was decorated beautifully and had everything we needed. The beds were really comfortable and we absolutely loved being able to see the sheep and lambs out the front of the cottage.

Brendon

Great place to stay anytime of the year, and really nice location. The hot tub was great when we stayed in winter! Nicole and Reuben were friendly, and plenty of nice walks, pubs etc in the area.

It was our second visit to Shepherds Cottage this year. Its in a great location and within easy reach of Hawkshead village with all its facilities. A beautiful cosy cottage, perfect for some much needed mum and daughter time. The bonus of a hot tub to soothe tired legs after a days walking! All the fixtures and fittings are of excellent quality and personal touches such as the advent calendar ensure a welcoming stay. Its no wonder its booked up months in advance. I would highly recommend a stay here. Well definitely be staying again in the future.

Shepherds Cottage surpassed all our expectations. We read the listing on your website and the photos looked lovely, but arriving in the dark to this beautiful cottage and opening the gate to see the porch lit up and a lovely Xmas wreath in the door it looked just charming. The cottage was beautifully decorated inside and the most comfortable furnishings you could wish for, making our stay an absolute joy, so much so we really didn't want to leave and I've booked again for next year. For people looking for a charming cottage, well positioned in the Lakes but far enough away to be serenity itself Shepherds Cottage is ideal.

Real nice place, we had snow which made it extra special

Aislinn

The property was lovely very well maintained, clean and well equipped. Hot tub was lovely and clean, added touch of robes and slippers was lovely. Bedrooms were perfect and had everything you needed and more. The only addition that would be useful is a clothes rail or additional hanging space for wet clothing

Vanessa

We had a lovely time at Shepherds Cottage. It was warm and welcoming and suited us as a family of 4 very well. It's a beautiful setting, really peaceful. The children loved seeing all the animals. Thank you!

Loved it! I have mobility issues but found the accommodation easy to negotiate and the shower accessible. It was beautifully clean throughout and I wouldn't hesitate to book again next year.

Great cottage in a beautiful location. We had a very relaxing holiday thanks.

Robert

A wonderful adjoined property located on a working farm with lovely owners. .. walks from the door into Hawkshead and views accross fields and lakes... the hot tub got plenty of use. We shall return for sure.

Claire

A lovely location over looking the lake on a working farm. The cottage is very cosy and nice and warm with everything you could need. Hot tub is an added bonus after a long day doing activities. The kids loved getting to know the farm animals especially the sheep! A lovely stay, even if the weather wasnt kind to us!!

What a beautiful cottage, in an absolutely stunning location. The hot tub was a very welcome addition after a long day in the hills. Great to be surrounded by the livestock too. The hosts were an absolutely delightful, as was the dog! Already looking at return dates.

Richard

Great location, property was really nice. We didnt feel the hot tub area was all that private with overlooking windows etc. so didnt use it. Installing usb plug sockets next to the beds and also a usb socket in the lounge would be a great addition no criticism just an suggestion.The driveway could benefit from infilling the ridges with gravel, fully understand this is working farm. All that said, great property and awesome location, we had a nice relaxing stay and would both recommend and return.

Leave a Review

Shepherds Cottage, Hawkshead

About Shepherds Cottage

Need To Know

More Glamping With Hot Tubs You May Like

Weather & Local Conditions

What to Expect Through the Year

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Bortle Scale Rating

What You Can See From the Property

Best Stargazing Conditions

Location & Elevation

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

Coordinates

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Planning Your Days by Season

August Daylight

Practical Essentials

Mobile Phone Signal

Nearest Essentials

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Private Hot Tub

Lake District Location

Perfect for Couples

Mountain Views

Windermere Proximity

Walking Paradise

Getting To Shepherds Cottage

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is Shepherds Cottage Right For You?

For Families

Glamping Features

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Drunken Duck Inn

Doi Intanon Thai Restaurant

The Apple Pie Cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Property

Shepherds Cottage Reviews